News

Beach volleyball
11/02/2017

Kira Walkenhorst adjusts to playing without Laura Ludwig

Fort Lauderdale, USA, February 11, 2017 - Posters throughout Fort Lauderdale proudly proclaim: “Olympic champions in town,” with a picture of Germany’s Kira Walkenhorst. But her partner, Laura Ludwig, is nowhere to be found.

That is because Ludwig is back home rehabbing from off-season surgery on her left shoulder.

Ludwig and Walkenhorst had a year to remember in 2016. They won an Olympic gold medal in Rio, then the World Tour Finals in Toronto.

Walkenhorst recently sent Ludwig a video message through the @FIVBBeach Twitter account, wishing her a speedy recovery. Ludwig responded by wishing Walkenhorst luck in Fort Lauderdale, along with a video of her rehabbing in a pool.

Kerri Walsh Jennings, who is no stranger to shoulder injuries, responded by telling Ludwig “You’re missed out here. A little less sunny while you’re away. Get strong and healthy. You make us all better.” Ludwig responded to Walsh Jennings, saying “You showed how to come back strong from a shoulder injury. Can’t wait to come back on tour and see you all.”

The Fort Lauderdale Major is Walkenhorst’s first FIVB tournament without Ludwig since 2012. She was partnered with Julia Grossner, and they were eliminated in the round of 24.

“I hope you come back soon,” Walkenhorst said to Ludwig, “but Julia is doing a great job so take your time.”